Vanek’s return will coincide with the addition of defenseman TJ Brennan, as interim head coach Ron Rolston looks for ways to jump start a power play that is currently sputtering at a league-low 10.7 percent (9/84) through 23 games, including just two goals in 40 opportunities (5%) on the road.

Rolston knows what he’s getting from Brennan, after coaching him for the past two seasons in Rochester. But despite scoring 35 points (14+21) in 34 games with the Amerks before his recall, that success hasn’t translated at the NHL level for Brennan. He’s yet to collect a point in seven games with the Sabres this season.

“Most importantly we want to make sure that his five-on-five game is good, and he’s playing good strong defense,” said Rolston. “From there he has an opportunity on our power play to use his gift of offense and his shot. He’ll get that down. He’s a big shooter and he’ll put pucks on net and that’s why he’s out there.”

Ryan Miller will make his 14th straight start for Buffalo tonight. He currently leads all NHL netminders in saves (637), shots faced (695) and minutes played (1,254), and is tied for first in games played (21) with Ilya Bryzgalov and Pekka Rinne.

Forward Brian Flynn will remain in the lineup for his third straight game since being recalled from Rochester on Friday. John Scott and Adam Pardy will be Buffalo’s healthy scratches.